"We here resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain — 
that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of Freedom." — 
Abraham Lincoln. 



DEDICATED TO THE HEROES ALL, OF THE U. S. A., IN THE 
CAUSE OF THE "NEW BIRTH OF FREEDOM" 




"The Birth of Freedom" 

(Copyright, 1919, by A. J. Schindler.) 

A PATRIOTIC PLAY IN THREE ACTS 

By 

ANTHONY J. SCHINDLER 



Author and Composer of 

"Old Glory," "The Bell in the Forest," " The Holy Night," "A 
Grain of Salt," " For God and Our Country," etc. 



PRICE, PER COPY, FIFTY CENTS 



PUBLISHED BY 



A. J. SCHINDLER 

179 Montgomery Street, Bloomfield, N. J. 



"The day has come when America is privileged to spend her 
blood and her might for the principles that gave her birth and happi- 
ness and the peace she has treasured" — Woodrow Wilson. 



ti 



The Birth of Freedom" 

A Patriotic Play in Three Acts 

BY ANTHONY J. SCHINDLER 



CAST OF CHARACTERS 

Robert Ashley, a wealthy manufacturer. Hiram Jenkins, postmaster. 

Sidney Ashley, the elder son. Uncle Rasmus, a colored veteran. 

Ray Ashley, the younger son. Mason Dixon Johnson, a pickaninny. 

Truman Sanders, a patriotic clerk. Captain Crum, U. S. A. 

Dick Darrell, an intriguing clerk. Si Grabber, town constable. 

Sandy Walsh, the office boy. Jack Bates, captain of boy scouts. 

Villagers, Boy Scouts, Soldiers, etc. 



GENERAL DIRECTIONS 
Costumes 
Ray^ fancy scout costume, curly blonde wig. 

Rasmus, faded G. A. R. uniform, white kinky wig and beard, goggles, colored make-up. 
Mason, shirt waist, torn shoes, trousers and stockings, cap, black kinky wig, colored make-ap. 
Sandy, typical youngster, red wig and cap. 
Hiram, shirt sleeves, long apron, gray wig and pointed beard. 
Captain Crum^ regulation uniform, U. S. A. 
Grabber, officer's uniform with badge. 

All the other characters modern dress, with make-up to suit the character. 



Scenery 

Act One. A country road or landscape. To left, store with sign, "POST OFFICE." Tree, with 
bench to right. Time — At the outbreak of the war. 

Act Two. A counting-room or office, with desks, telephone and office furniture placed about. To 
left a large safe. Time — When hostilities commence. 

Act Three. Scene One. Same as Act One, with tent to right, marked "RECRUITING STA- 
TION." Time — At the enlistment. 

Scene Two. Same as first scene, without tent. Time — At the home-coming of the troops. 



IMPORTANT COYPRIGHT NOTICE 

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SPECIAL: Will send six copies of play, including the right of public performance thereof, \ 

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Please remit by postal money order, as stamps are not acceptable. 

Address, A. J. SCHINDLER, 

*lII.O 5154 ^^^ Montgomery St., Bloomfield, N. J. 




^ APR -7 1319 



The Birth of Freedom 

(Copyright 1919, by A. J. Sohindler) 

ACT ONE 

Scene— A country road or landscape. To left country store with sign, "POST OFFICE" 
Tree with bench to right. 

As curtain rises. Mason is leading Uncle Rasmus, carrj-ing a mail-bag, towards post office. 

Unc. Ras. (Remonstrating.) I say dere chile, go easy ! Dese ole bones ob mine 
can t circomlocate as fast as dey used to. (Stops, panting.) 

Mason. (Arms a-kimbo.) Fo' why you say dat ? Shame on youse, Uncle Ras- 
mus. (Gesticulating.) Didn't I seen youse de odder night dancin' a break 
down m the barn ? Now tell de truff . 

Unc. Ras. Look a-here chile, don't youse try to arger wif me. I want dancin 
at all; I was simply limbenn up my lims case the rumatiz got into my feets, 
dat s wat I was dom fo shuah. 

Mason. Well, I don' know, but if youse 'specs to get dem mails to the post office 
on ime, you shuah has got to move along livelier. So come on £et dem 
circleutionanes gom' a little faster. ^ 

Unc Ras. All right honey I'se be a-comin'. I specs' I'll have to put in a applir- 
cation for one ob dem "Yotomobiles," and then we can locomote faster. (Mov- 
tng along slowly.) ^ 

Sidney. (Entering hurriedly from left, swinging cane.) I say, old blackie 
hand me over the mail for my dad. (Grabs at mail-bag ) "^lacKie, 

Unc Ras. (Agitated.) Why shuah Marse Sidney youse should know better 

onlv liZ" Xl^'^l?"' '"^''- ^ ""^ ^° ^^'^^^^ ^'^' "^^^1 ^« the postmaster 
only, an he will hand it to you as soon as it is sorted. 

Mason. (Indignant pushing Sidney.) Say, youse liver-puddin'd white trash 

Sidney. (Pushing Mason aside, angrily.) What impudence is this. I will re- 
port this matter at once to the Department. The mail is now almost aT hour 
late, and my dad is expecting some important letters 

Mason. Yah, is dat so? Well, as long as I is 'round, youse can't interfere wid 
any mails or females neider. Why didn't youse in^ife us in your "Fordabne" 
when youse passed us on the road ? Then we shuah'd got here soone? S. 
Rasmus towards post office.) cic sooner, (^rmis 

Unc. Ras. (Reproachfully.) My dear Marse Sidney, calm you'self You know 
pride hath Its fall. Youse didn't used to act that'way. Wt am came obe" 

'"'StmST/'aiut thS' "° "''"^"^ '^^"^ ^^" ^'^ ^"^ -^ ^^-- I'" - the 

Jenkins (Coming from store, listening, unobserved.) That is not necess;,rv' 

Mister Sidney. I heard your dispute and must say that Rasmus was in hk 

it- 1 l!" ^''''lu ^'''T '^' ^''''''- I^ y^^ willLndlyXinto the office 
I will hand you the mail as soon as it is assorted. (All Iff sfaqVexcmMa 
son, who ts making faces at Sidney.) U ^^^^ye except Mo- 

Ray. (Running toivards Mason.) Hello, Mason, glad to see von T r.n . 

Mason. 
uni 

little _ , 

you like^dat. (Imitates.) 




The Birth of Freedom 



Ray. That's very kind of you. But tell me, how is your good behavior these 

days? 
Masoi 




Ray. Why, what has happened ? 

Mason. O Marse Sidney, he jes' gone and pevaricated me and Uncle Rasmus 
and I told him what I thought of him. He want' Uncle Rasmus to gib him his 
mail 'fore it got to the postmaster, and 'case he wouldn't gib it up, he done 
gone threatened dat he would hab him bounced out ob his job. 

Ray. What ? Sidney said he would do this ? 

Mason. Yep, Mr. Ray, dats wat he sais. And so I gibs him a good tongue 
lashin' and he goes away quite angry. But here comes Uncle Rasmus now. 
(Uncle Rasmus comes towards them.) 

Unc. Ras. Why, bress you, Ray, how trim you looks and be. (Ray runs to 
him.) You be lookin' Hke a gallant soldier, you be. 

Ray. O dear Uncle Rasmus, won't you come and sit by us, and tell us some 
stories about the civil war? (Pulls him towards bench.) Please now, sit 
down. (Uncle Rasmus seated with Ray right and Mason left.) 

Mason. Yah, and don't be tellin' no ghost stories, neider, to frighten little Ray, 
youse hear me ? 

Ray. (Taking hold of G. A. R. badge.) Please do tell us what this badge 
means, and the uniform you are wearing. 

Unc. Ras. (Slowly.) Well, to please you, my dears, I will do so. This is the 
uniform of the Grand Army of the Republic. It am worn by all the veterans 
of the Civil War. You shuah have heard of that war? When that great, 
good, and kind man. Father Abe Linculm, issued the 'Mancipation Procler- 
mation, this grand country of ourn was plunged in a terruble tumoil, and a 
awful war swept over this country in which many people was shot, killed and 
wounded. 

Ray. O Uncle Rasmus, I think war must be something awful. Why do they 
fight and kill? Don't the good book tell us "Thou shall not kill"? 

Unc Ras. Yas, it do that; but war am a wisitation ob the good Lord above. 
When the selfish motives of the people control them ; when greed, hatred and 
passions possess their souls, and de fear ob de Lord leaves their hearts, they 
turn away from their God, and He in turn also forsakes them. 

Mason. I say. Uncle Rasmus, yo' shuah got a lot ob 'ligion down in the last camp 
meetin'. 

Unc. Ras. No sonny, dem is only my recomflections. I'se gettin' along in years 
and my edercation were sadly neglected, but deep down in my heart a voice 
says to me "Put your trust in the Lord, for whatever He wills is well done." 

Ray. So you have also fought in the Civil War? 

Unc. Ras. Yes, dear. I fought with the No'thern army and was present at the 
surrender ob Gen'l Lee. I can well remember Gen'l Grant as we passed in 
review before him. O it was a grand sight, a great feelin', and it well repaid 
me for all the sufferin's and hardships endured during three years ob battle, 
and I'm proud indeed, that I was one ob dose that helped preserve dis Union, 
for you and for me. 

Mason. I 'specs youse had no rumatiz dem days in your legs, case you must hab 
been busy dodgin' dem bullets. 

Unc. Ras. Dat am right, chile. But you must excuse me now as I have some 
chores to do for Marse Jenkins. (As he rises, Sidney rushes from store, ob- 
serves Ray with Rasmus and Mason.) 
Sidney. (Grabs Ray by arm, forcing him away.) What do I see? Since when 
are you associating with that black trash ? Can't you find companions amongst 
your own kind and color? 
Ray. (Drawing back defiantly.) It is none of your business, Sidney, whom I 
choose for companions. These poor unfortunates are kind and dear to me. 
That is more than I can say of you. 



The Birth of Freedoni 



Sidney. (Angry.) Well, I'll not have you associate with that scum, and if you 
won't come with me, I'll send your tutor after you, as I am in a hurry to get 
to the office. (Rushes off.) 

Ray. (Sarcastically.) O you need not hurry to send Mr. Fogy, the tutor as he 
will have a lively time finding me. (To Mason.) Come on, Mason, let's 
take a romp in the woods and look for birds'-nests. Good-bye, Uncle' Ras- 
mus; see you later. (Both off.) 

Unc. Ras. Good-bye, deahs. (Dejected, as he goes towards store.) I don' 
knows wats come over Marse Sidney, lately. Dere shuah is somethin' gone 
wrong wid dat boy. He were always gay and happy ; now he am cross and 
surly. Fse 'fraid he's keepin' bad comp'ny, or has some secret trubles; if 
I'se only knew wat it am I'd gladly help him. 

Jenkins. (Rushing from store.) Hear, Uncle Rasmus: listen to the latest 
news from Washington. (Agitated.) It's terrible. (Reads.) "WAR IS 
DECLARED ! President Wilson addresses the Congress. Congress acts at 
once. A general call for enlistment in the army and navy is issued." Quick 
spread the news throughout the village. 

Unc. Ras. (Bewildered.) War? Good Good above! War again? with all its 
horrors, sufferin's and heartaches ! 

Jenkins. (Solemnly.) Yes, Rasmus, the threatening cloud which has so long 
hung over us has at last opened it's flood-gates, and grim war is upon us in 
full reality, m all its dire consequences. (Martial music is heard in distance.) 

Unc. Ras. Ah, here comes my army, my brave Boy Scouts, with your flag and 
my flag proudly, defiantly floatin' in the breeze. (Bnthusiastic.) The flag 
dat nebber knew defeat and nebber will. God bless it, God bless it. (As 
Boy Scouts march on stage, Rasmus reverently uncovers head as flag is borne 
by, then commands, "Company, halt!") 

Jack Bates. (Stepping forzvard, addressing Rasmus.) General, we salute you 

Unc. Ras. (All salute.) Comp'ny, 'tention ! His honor, the postmaster will 

now address you. ' 

Jenkins. (Stepping forward.) My dear boys, I have something serious to tell 
you. I have just received a dispatch from Washington. Our country has 
entered into the terrible world war, which is now ravaging and devastating 
almost the entire world. War has been declared. The President is calling 
for volunteers and is urging us to support him to our utmost in this time of 
dire distress. I therefore ask you to accompany Uncle Rasmus, your general 
throughout the village and make known to every inhabitant that war has been 
declared. 

Scouts. (All shout zvith enthusiasm.) That we will. Hurrah for our flae' 
Hurrah for our country ! ' 

Unc. Ras. Comp'ny 'tention! Yo' shuah mus' be proud ob the honor to receib 
and exercute de first orders issued in dis war by your commander-in-chief 
President Wilson ; but befo' we'se percede. let us pledge anew our Allegiance 
to the Flag. (All recite the pledge.) 



"PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE." 

(Right hand lifted, palm downward, to a line with the forehead and close to it; standing 
tnus, all repeat together slowly : *' 

"I pledge allegiance to my Flag and to the Republic for which it stands; One Nation indi- 
visible, with Liberty and Justice for All." i^duwi, inui 

(At the conclusion of the pledge, a chorus, behind the scenes, sings the "Star-Spangled Ban- 
ner-, in which the audience be requested to join. At finish of song, Rasmus fervently kisses fla^ 



END OF FIRST ACT. 



The Birth of Freedom 



ACT TWO 

Scene— A counting-room, or oflSce; desks and furniture placed about; bookcase, safe, and 
telephone. Doors right and left marked "Entrance" and "Private." 

As curtain rises, Sandy is putting office in order, dusting and arranging desks. 

Sandy. {Yawning.) O, gee, dis office-boy bisness aint what it's cracked up to 
be. I'm first on the job in the morning, and the last to quit in the evening, 
and I'm on the jump all day long. Well, that being as it may, there is no 
rest for the wicked, as the saying goes, so what's the difference. {Telephone 
rings.) O pshaw, dere goes dem bells again. Dats de thoid time dis morn- 
ing. It makes me tired. {Answering phone.) Hello — Hello — Hello — 

Hell what's dat? Yes, that's me, who are you? O — your central? How 

are you, Mabel? What? — sassy fellow? O, I don't know— no, I'm Sandy — 
yes, the chief clerk— yes, willin' to be. What d'ye want? Who?— What?— 
When ? — Where ?— How ? O say, Mabel, have a heart, dry up !— Impertinent ? 
What? Ring off? O, ring off your neck — so long. {Hangs up receiver.) 
Dem telephone operators gets on my noives. {Resumes duties.) O pshaw, 
hard work ain't easy, dat's all I've got to say ; an' just think, to-day the Orioles 
and Blue Jays plays the last ball game of the season, an' me cooped up here 
with no chanct of seein' the finish. {Despairingly.) O why wasn't I born 
rich instead of good looking? {Knock at door.) For the love of Mike, vis- 
itors so early in the morning, with none of the office staff arrived yet. Well, 
I do declare ; business must be rushin' by the door. {Opens door and Mason 
enters timidly.) 

Mason. 'Scuse me, sah. Kin Fse see Marse Sidney? 

Sandy. No, Smoke, you'se can't, bekase the gentleman hasn't arrived yet. What 
d'ye want to see him about ? I'm his confiding secretary. 

Mason. O, I'se jess come to 'pologize. 

Sandy. 'Pologize, for what ? 

Mason. O, I jess want to 'pologize for somefink. 

Sandy. G'wan run along. Snowball ; 'pologize to your granny. 

Mason. {Running towards door, shouting back.) All right, you'se red-headed 
creampuff, I'se will call later to see him. Ta-ta. {Off.) 

Sandy. Well, of all the noive, that kid takes the goat. I'll knock his block off if 
he shows up here again. {Sits at desk, with feet upon it; takes cigarette from 
pocket and is about to light it, as Truman enters.) 

Truman, {Pleasantly.) Good morning, Mr. Walsh, how are you this beautiful 
morning? {Removes hat and coat to wardrobe.) 

Sandy. {Perplexed, hiding cigarette.) Why — er — good morning, Mr. Sanders. 
I'm quite well; just a little fat-i-gued, but nothing much serious. 

Trum. {Smiling, busying himself at desk.) O you'll get over that in the course 
of the day. A little spring fever, that's all. You need a tonic; that will fix 
you up. 

Sandy. {Sighing.) Yes, I guess I do. {Goes tozvards private office, duster in 
hand.. .Aside.) Game called at 2:30 — double-header, too. Ah, what's de 
use of livin', anyway? {Exits, private office.) 

Trum. {Looking at newspaper.) Things are looking very serious indeed. It is 
my opinion that if our country wants to uphold its dignity and honor, we shall 
be compelled to enter the world war. The demands and protests of our 
President are being ignored and treated with contempt. {Dick enters unob- 
served, listening.) It is our bounden duty to act firmly, intelligently, and 
with determination, and show the foreign despots that this country must be re- 
spected, the wrongs righted, its every demand complied with, or this great na- 
tion of ours will rise as a man in righteous wrath to enforce it with all its 
might and power. 

Dick. {Smiling.) Why, good morning, Mr. Sanders; I was listening to your 
outburst of enthusiasm, and admire your patriotism. I am as good a patriot 
as the next fellow, but my patriotism don't enthuse me to the extent that I 
care to don a uniform or shoulder a gun for it. That's all bosh ; we don't want 
war and we don't need it. Let the foreigners fight their own battles, and let 
the U. S. A. mind their own business, that's my idea. 



The Birth of Freedom 



Trum. {Surprised.) Why, Darrell, I am surprised to hear you talk that way. 
Patriotism, as you define it, is only skin deep, like a coat of veneer. It does 
not come from the heart, nor does it go to the heart. It's all on the surface. 
In these trying times, in this terrible crisis which confronts us, we must all 
be true and loyal citizens, ready to shed our blood for our country, aye, if 
needs be, make the supreme sacrifice for the glorious flag that protects and 
shelters both you and me. 

Sidney. {Enters hurriedly, excitedly.) It's come at last, boys. This accursed 
war which has engulfed almost the entire universe has reached our shores. 
War has been declared ! 

Trum., Dick. {Together, anxious.) War declared? When? 

Sidney. Dispatches have just been received from Washington, and the news is 
being circulated throughout the town. 

Trum. So it has come at last; 'twas bound to come. There was no other course 
left for us, and now that we are in it, we will make the best of it, and bring 
it to a speedy and glorious finish, and so make the world safe for liberty and 
democracy for all time to come. 

Sidney. {Sarcastic.) So say you, and how are we going to do it? 

Trum. Do it? Why, you surprise me, Mr. Ashley. Do it? There is only one 
way, and that is that each one of us does his part, to his very utmost, to reach 
the one and only goal, and that is, to win the war, regardless of any sacrifices, 
of any personal considerations. 

Dick. O you'd make a fine Fourth of July orator; lots of patriotic bombshells, 
followed by enthusiastic applause, and, bowing, retire with a smiling counte- 
nance. 

Trum. {Angrily.) I resent being reproved in this manner by you, Mr. Darrell. 
{Mr. Ashley enters unobserved, listening.) I can only meet this insult by 
declaring here, openly before you all, that I shall consider it an honor and dis- 
tinction to be among the first to answer my country's call, and to prove what 
I say {goes to wardrobe and dons hat and coat), I am going nozv, to enlist in 
the arrny, and as for you, Dick Darrell, if you have a spark of manhood, of 
patriotism, left in your puny heart, I defy you to do likewise. 

Dick. {Fiercely.) This is worse than an insult, Sanders, and I know how to 
resent it. {Is about to remove his coat to attack Sanders, as Ashley steps 
calmly forward, saying :) 

Ashi,ey. Good morning, gentlemen. Quite an unusual occurrence in this office, 
I hope. If you have any battles to fight, you will have plenty of opportunity 
on the fields of Flanders, without desecrating this office. {All look abashed.) 
Mr. Sanders, you will please come to my office, as I need your services. {Ash- 
ley and Sanders exit to office.) 

Dick. {Scowling and raging.) The impudent pup! I'll square accounts with 
him some day, never fear. Dick Darrell never forgets. 

Sidney. {Soothingly.) Calm yourself, Dick; you are beside yourself. You 
know that Sanders is very sensitive, and you should not have provoked him. 
Forget it, boy, forget it. 

Dick. Forget it ? No. I never forget. I have a score to settle against Truman 
Sanders, and he shall pay for it in full, mark my words. 

Sandy. {Enters from office.) I'm going to the post office, with some mail for 
the governor, and if you have any I'll take it on my way. 

Sidney. No, Sandy, we have nothing for you. 

Sandy. {As he leaves.) Very well, gentlemen, I'll be back shortly. {Off.) 

Sidney. {Telephone rings, Sidney anszvers.) Hello, what's that? Ironsides 
Railroad stocks dropped twenty points? Good God, that wipes me out — Yes? 
— Send you collateral for the stock ? — Why, man, I'm completely wiped out, I 
can't do it. {Hangs up receiver.) Some news, Dick, from the Stock Ex- 
change. The Ironsides stock has tumbled, the bottom has dropped out. 
What con we do ? I'm disgraced. I'm ruined. O this damnable war. 

Dick. {Sneeringly.) Why, make the best of it, Sid. Never say die. We'll find 
a way out of it, or you can call me a duffer. 

Sidney. But I have gone into this gambling business too far. I cannot retrench. 



The Birth of Freedom 



and my funds are exhausted. There's only one thing left for me to do, and 
that is to make a clean breast of it, to tell dad all, ana ask his forgiveness. 

Dick. If you are so inclined, well and good. But how do you suppose your pa 
will feel about it? What will he think of his darlmg boy cumng up such 
capers behind his back? You know his sense for rectitude and justice, and I, 
for one, should not like to be in your boots, facing him with a confession. 

Sidney. I know it, Dick. I dread to do it, but there is no other way out of it. 
{Goes towards private office as door opens and Ashley and Truman enter, 
conversing.) 

Trum. I am fully resolved to enhst, Mr. Ashley, and nothing can deter me. 

Ashley. Not even your mother? Have you consulted her, have you thought of 
her probable plight during your absence ? 

Trum. My dear mother is my chum. I have often discussed this emergency 
with her. She is ready to make the sacrifice with me. I have laid sufihcient 
funds aside, from my earnings, to keep her from want for some time to come, 
and for the rest, we will trust in the good God above. On my way to the 
recruiting office, I shall also stop at the bank and deposit my earnings, in my 
mother's name, so that she will be provided for in my absence. 

Dick. {Aside to Sidney.) I've got it. I'll help you and at the same time get 
my revenge on Truman. {They both go off to private office.) 

Ashley. Very well, Truman. {Taking his hand.) I admire your noble spirit. 
If I cannot dissuade you from your noble purpose, let me at least extend to 
you my best wishes. {Goes into private office.) 

Trum. {Seated at desk, meditating.) Well, it's done at last; the die is cast for 
victory and democracy. Whether I survive or my bones lie withering in the 
sands of Flanders, what care I ? It must be a glorious death, indeed, to die 
for one's country, to die in the cause of humanity and justice, and, should I 
survive, oh, the glory of it! {Head bowed down on desk.) 

Mason. {Opens door cautiously, peering in and retreating, repeatedly.) I'se 
jess wonder wedder de coast am clear. {Looking around, on tip-toe.) Fo' 
shuah dat man am 'sleep at his post. {Goes up to Truman.) I says, Mister 
{Truman starts up), is youse been out all night, and part ob de mornin'? 
{Recognises Truman.) O 'scuse me, Marse Truman, I'se didn't know it was 
youse. 

Trum. Why, hello, Mason, what brings you here so early in the morning? 

Mason. {Hesitating.) Why, outside my feets, I comes to 'pologize to Marse 
Sidney. 

Trum. 'Pologize to Mr. Sidney? Why, how's that? 

Mason. O Marse Truman, dat am a long story. Have Marse Sidney got in yet? 

Trum. Why, yes, Mason, he is in the private office now. Won't you take a seat? 

Mason. I'se 'feared ob dat Sandy clerk what am 'round here. He jes done gone 
said dat he'd knock my block off w'en he kotches me 'round here agin. 

Trum. {Laughing.) Is that so? Well, then you had better hide behind that 
safe over there, and you can watch both Sidney and Sandy as they come in. 

Mason. All right, Marse Truman, thank you. I'se got to 'pologize to Marse 
Sidney, case Uncle Rasmus says I was too gumbrashus. 

Trum. Very well. Mason, you just hang around. Mr. Sidney will come out of 
the office presently. I am off to enlist in the army and will be back shortly. 

Mason. Wa-wa-wats that? 'nlist in de army? Fo' shuah youse aint don gone to 
get shooted all up, such a nice kind gemblemans as youse be ? Why don Marse 
Sidney 'list? He won't be mist. He am a mean cantank'rour indervidual, dats 
wat he am — oh, excuse me, Marse Truman, I'se forgotten myself again. I 
come to 'pologize, and onct am shuah 'nufif. 

Trum. O never mind, Mason, just you hang around and you'll get your chance 
to apologize. {Off.) 

Mason. {Slowly retreating towards safe.) By golly, now, wat youse tink ob 
dat ?— an' he such a nice gemmen, too, wif a nice ole mudder wat will be 
cryin' her eyes out, too. My — my— dis am shuahly aggravashuning ! {Hides 
behind safe as Dick and Sidney enter, excitedly.) 

Dick. I tell you, Sidney, I have the whole thing planned out. Truman is oflF to 



i 



The Birth of Freedom 



enlist ; he will not be in our way to check us, and it will be an easy matter to 
falsify — I mean correct — some of his entries to suit our convenience. 

Sidney. (Aghast.) Why, Dick, you do not propose to commit forgery to help 
me out, and put the guilt on an innocent person? I'll not stand for it. I still 
have a spark of honor left in me. 

Dick. But, Sidney, listen 

Sidney. No, no. I'll not listen. Let me hear no more. 

Dick. Why, Sidney, you don't understand me. Nobody will be the wiser. {Ma- 
son peers coutiously from behind safe, listening.) You understand what 
Truman's enlistment means? Will he survive this terrible carnage on the 
other side? And even if he does, it will be a long time before he will be 
back again. You know that the bottom of Ironsides stock has dropped out 
and you will have to make good. 

Sidney. (Faltering.) But, Dick, think of it! Forgery, embezzlement! 

Dick. Yes, I know, they are hard words; so are disgrace and contempt. Look 
here, Sidney, it is only for the time being, to tide us over to meet our obliga- 
tions. A loan, if we may so call it ; besides, you will come in for it some day 
by sharing in the estate, so where is the harm ? A thousand, more or less, what 
will that amount to ? Consider it as a loan. 

Sidney. (Wavering.) You tempt me sorely, Dick, and I would fain accede to 
your rascality, but I cannot bring myself to do it. 

Dick. (Coaxingly.) O pshaw, put aside your petty scruples. I can easily alter 
one of the entries on the ledger, so that the cash on hand will balance, not- 
withstanding that we extract a thousand dollars from the money in the safe. 
As long as we run the office, and not have that prowling Truman around, we 
can cover up our tracks. In the meantime we can take another flier. The 
stock market is low and panicky, and as soon as the war activities are in full 
swing, the market is sure to rise. Then we can recoup our losses and make 
good this loan. 

Sidney. You certainly are my evil genius, Dick. Your plan seems feasible, and 
to avoid the disgrace which must follow my exposure, I'll have to submit to 
your proposal, base as it may be. 

Dick. (Confidingly.) Oh, it don't take much to overcome one's scruples, 
especially if you have the chance to get even with an insulting, slandering prig 
like Truman. (Goes towards safe.) Well, what say you? 

Sidney. (Looking around furtively, despairingly.) What can I say? Go ahead 
and do your dirty work, but I cannot bear witness to it. (Turns back to 
Dick, who cautiously opens safe, extracts a bundle of banknotes therefrom- 
and tucks them into his pocket.) 

Sidney. (Turns around suddenly, shouting.) Wait, Dick, don't do it. No, no! 

Dick. (Laughing.) Too late, Sidney; the deed is done; forget it. I'm off to 
our bankers to meet our obligations. (Exits hastily.) 

Sidney. (Sinks down at desk, zvith drooping head, muttering.) My God, has it 
come to this? A thief and a forger? (Sobbing.) 

Mason. ( Who has been cautiously peering from behind safe, witnessing the loot- 
ing by Dick, comes slozuly towards Sidney, saying, timidly.) Tse come to 
'pologize, Marse Sidney. 

Sidney. (Starts up, trembling.) Where do you come from? What do you want? 

Mason. Uncle Rasmus done gone and sent me to 'pologize. 

Sidney. (Enraged, grabs hold of Mason, shaking him.) Tell me, how long 
have you been here ? 

Mason. (Stammering.) Why, I'se been here before, an' now Fse here again, 
'kase I wants to 'pologize. (Trembling.) 

Sidney. How long have you been in here, how did you get in ? 

Mason. Why, I jes naturally comes in by the door, jes now. 

Sidney. (Shaking Mason.) You lie, you black imp ! I did not hear you enter. 

Mason. (Shifting uneasily.) O dat's bekase youse was sitting at the desk wif 

youse head bowed down, sayin' your prayers like, in deep reflecshums and 

medimtations, like. Uncle Rasmus sends me to 'pologize to youse for bein' 

_ so comflunctious to youse dis mornin'. T axes you pahdon, hope I may nebber 

die. yours truly, cross my heart. 




For God And Our Country. 

Words and Masis 
Con spiritoso. ANTHONY J. SCHINDtER. 



Piano 




gEf-TT-^-^j^ ji i; ir ^ 4. ' ■> -I ^-^^^ P ' r ^ F ^ 



He spond-ing- to ourCoun-try's call, 
Tho' far from home andfriendsso dear. 



We answer read ; y one and all; 
There's One who watch- es ev - er near; 



To. 
Aa 




ri|;^t for jus-tice and hu - man- i - ty. Bar free-dom right-cous-oess and lib - er - ty. Mo 

face the foe u- it h shot and shell a- round, And — say a pray'r that we may bold our ground. That 




Dial - ice, ha -tred,scorn or greed, 
peace, tran-quil - li - ty. may reign 



Im - pels our hearts to val - iabt deed. Wo are 

The wide worl d o - ver soon a - pain. to the 




bat-tling for our flag oer land and sea. For the World's De-moo-ra - cy. 
God of Might, of Jus-tice and of Right. We will place our Pes - ti - ny. 



Aa wo' 




march a - long Stoat of heart, full of hope.ne'er flinch - 15^, With glad -some song. 



And viih 




Full Military Band, 50 Cents. 




call - ing. An d we an.swerwith all mig ht and main, For God! For- our Homes! And, our DearCoun-try! 




And we marcTi on! _ march on!_ With the Cross and the Star- ry Ban-ner lead - ing, March 




To do bat -tie for oar rights tho'hearts are bleed - ing We'll be loy -al true and brave.Tho' we 




A copy of this song, full sheet music size, will be sont for 25 cents. 



10 The Birth of Freedom 



Sidney. (Aside, flustered.) There's something wrong here. If that brat should 

have heard and seen what was going on here (to Mason, threateningly.) 

Listen to me, you blackguard, if you are lying to me, I'll choke the dirty black 
breath out of your throat. 

Mason. (Crouching.) Hones', Marse Sidney, I'se done heard and seen nothin'. 

Sidney. (Raging, grabs at Mason's throat, slowly strangling him.) If you have 
and dare utter a word about it to a living soul, I'll strangle you as I would a 
black dog. 

Mason. (Gasping for breath, faintly.) O please — don't — choke— me. You — 
hurt — me. (Falls exhausted to the floor.) Help! help! help! 

Ashley. (Rushes from office, confronts Sidney, who is stooping over Mason.) 
What means this, Sidney ? What are you about to do ? 

Sidney. (Rises, starts back, dazed.) Why — dad — I don't know — what's come 
over me, I — lost control of myself — (staggers) — the war — the war — it's got 
on — my — nerves. (Drops in chair at desk.) 

Ashley. (Goes to Sidney, alarmed.) Why, boy, what is the matter? You must 
be ill. I'll call up the doctor at once. (Goes towards 'phone as Ray rushes in.) 

Ray. Hello, daddy, I came to show you my new uniform ; isn't it lovely? (Sees 
Mason on floor.) Why, look who's here. Hello, Mason, why are you so 
quiet? (Tries to raise him.) Come, sit up and talk to me. (Rests Mason's 
head on his knee.) What's the trouble? 

Mason. (Bewildered.) O nuthin much, Ray. I'se down and out. Take me 
(feebly) home — to — Uncle Rasmus; please — do. 

Ashley. (Raises up Mason from floor.) Tell me, child — tell me all that's hap- 
pened ; don't be afraid. 

Mason. (Coming to, slowly.) O nuthin much. Marse Ashley; we jess had a 
frenly sparrin match, Marse Sidney and me (feebly), an. I went — down — on 
— the — mat — in — de — first — round, dat's all (falls fainting in Rav's arms.) 

Ashley. (Goes to Sidney, putting hand on his shoulder, gravely shaking head, 
saying:) My boy, what is the meaning of all this? (Curtain descends 
slowly. ) 

END OF SECOND ACT. 



ACT THREE— First Scene 

Scene— Same as first act, with tent to right bearing sign "RECRUmNG STATION." Out- 
side of tent small writing table and chair. 

As curtain rises, villagers .are passing to and fro, gazing with awe at (uiards who are pa- 
trolling. Hiram comes from store, followed by Captain Crum. 

Hiram. I hope, my dear Captain, that you will be comfortable during your stay 
here. If there is anything further that we can do for you, just command us. 

C. Crum. Thank you, my dear Mr. Jenkins; we certainly appreciate your kind- 
ness, and are more than pleased with your hospitality. I shall retire to my 
tent to make ready for the enlistment at once. (Retires to tent.) 

Hiram. Very well. Captain, I am yours at command. And now, let our brave 
sons come forward and enroll under the sheltering folds of our glorious ban- 
ner. 

Rasmus. (Coming from store.) Too bad, that I'se can't enlist with the boys as 
I'se done in sixty. (As guard passes, he salutes.) 

Hiram. Yes, Rasmus, we are not as young as we used to be, and I'm afraid our 
fighting days are over. (Off.) 

Rasmus. Yas, we'se ain't as spry as we used to be. neither. O how I would like 
to be young again, to fight for my country, to fight for my flag, but it kain't 
be did.^ I must be on my way, now ; but first I'll call on de captain and pay my 
respec's. (Goes towards tent, as Captain Crum emerges.) Captain, I'se 
salute you. I'se ready for orders. Ef I kin be ob service to vou. at any time, 
you'se will find Rasmus ready. (Bows.) 

C. Crum. Very kind of you, my dear Rasmus, I assure you. You may take this 
message to Mr. Robert Ashley; there is no replv required. (Hands letter to 
Rasmus. ) 



The Birth of Freedom 11 



Rasmus. I'se shall deliber it directly, Captain. {Salutes and goes off.) 

C. Crum. {Arranges paper and writing material on desk.) So, now we are 
ready for the enlistment. {Seated.) I have every reason to believe that this 
district will show a fair quota of recruits. 

Trum. {Enters briskly, goes to tent.) I beg your pardon, Captain, if I am in- 
truding. I come to enlist in the army for the duration of the war, and if I 
am not too previous, I should like to enlist now. 

C. Crum. {Warmly.) Why, we will be glad to have you, young man. It's an 
honor to offer one's services to his country in time of need, and you should be 
proud of the fact that you are the first volunteer from this district. I con- 
gratulate you. From all appearances, I think you will pass the mark. Step 
inside and your application will be duly registered. ( Truman enters tent, and 
in the meanwhile the Boy Scouts march on stage, zvith fifes and drums, and a 
number of young men following to enlist. They are lined up by the guards, 
and each in turn enters the tent to enrol. During this time the song, "For 
God and Our Country," is sung by the Scouts and chorus, behind the scenes. 
The enlisted men, after having registered, line up to one side, and are escorted 
off stage by the guards, followed by the Scouts, singing the refrain, "March 
On!") 

Dick. {Enters left, watching procession retreating.) Well, I be blowed ! Things 
are certainly coming my way. There goes Truman, heading the volunteers, 
just as he boasted to do, and I basking in the sunshine of his absence. A 
great world this is, indeed : what's one's loss is the other's gain. Well, I 
should worry. I've straightened out Sidney's tangle, and incidentally helped 
out myself. So what's the use? I'm on easy street, now. {Crosses to right, 
when Rasmus and Ray appear, leading Mason, almost exhausted.) 

Ray. Just a few steps more, my brave little fellow, and you will be safely at 
home. 

Rasmus. Yas, Mason, mind Ray. He am youse guardian angel. He'll bring 
youse home safely. 

Mason. {Feebly.) O my pore li'l head — it am swimmin' round' like a top. Take 
me home, please — put me in my liT bed. 

Rasmus. Calm yuself, my boy, youse am at home now, and Marse Ashley hab 
sent fo' the doctor. He will come to see you and make youse well again. 

Mason. {Observes Dick, startled.) O Uncle Rasmus — dat am de man! Take — 
him — away — he am — a — thief — a forger — I know — it — I'se seen him wid my 
own liT eyes. O Ray — he ruined youse brudder, Sidney, an' youse brudder 
'most — killed O — my — head {Swoons away.) 

Dick. {Stepping forward.) What's all this foolish talk about? 

Rasmus. O Marse, the poor little boy am delir'us. I'se 'fraid he's took with 
brain- fever. We'se jess taking him home an' de doctor is comin' to see him. 
Don't mind his talk, he am ramblin'. 

Dick. O that's all right, Rasmus. Let me help you carry him to his home. {Ras- 
mus and Dick carry off Mason, left.) 

Ray. I cannot understand the meaning of all this. My brother Sidney and Ma- 
son taken ill at the same time, and in the same manner, and Mason accusing 
Dick of being a thief and forger, and ruining Sidney. I must go and see 
daddy and tell him all about it. Perhaps he will know what it means. 

Dick. {Returning.) That w^on't be necessary, Ray. Mason is down with a 
high fever, and is not responsible for what he says. I'm going to the office, 
and if you will come with me I can drop you off at your house. 

Ray, All right. I'll be with you. {Both off. Captain enters from tent.) 

Hiram. {Comes from store, goes up to Captain.) My dear Captain, are you 
satisfied with the enlistment so far? 

Capt. C. I am more than gratified, my dear Mr. Jenkins. This community has 
responded nobly to the call, and I have every reason to believe, judging from 
appearance and character, that every one of the candidates will successfully 
pass the final examination. They are, one and all, fine specimens of manhood. 

Hiram. I am proud of that, my dear Captain, proud of my fellow citizens, and I 
know that every one of them will give a good account of himself. 

Capt. C. (Drums heard in distance.) Here they come, ready for the camp, 



12 The Birth of Freedom 



ready to be mustered in. {Truman, with the enlisted men, march on stage 
carrying small handbags, accompanied by guards, Scouts and relatives, who 
are marching with them. They halt in centre of stage.) 
Hiram. {Addressing them.) My dear friends, you are now about to take leave 
from all who are near and dear to you. It is truly an inspiring moment, not- 
withstanding that our hearts are sad and heavy. You came forward to an- 
swer your country's call, ready to make every sacrifice, even the supreme 
sacrifice if that be your lot. While you are away, fighting our battles, our 
thoughts will constantly be with you, and our prayers will ever be for you. 
God speed you all, God bless you all. {'Mid hand-shakings and leave-takings, 
the command is given to fall in line, "Forzvard, march!" and to the strains of 
the song, "For God and Our Country," in which all join in, the recruits march 
off, amid cheering and waving of flags, as curtain drops.) 

Second Scene 

Scenery same as first scene, with tent removed. 

Hiram and Rasmus, assisted by Boy Scouts, are putting up flags, garlands, and "WELCOME 
HOME" signs, in appropriate places. 

Rasmus. {Directing.) Now, boys, wen I kem home, back in sixty, from the 
war, dere were a big banner stretched 'cross the street sayin' "WELCOME 
HOME." Now, I jess like to have the boys wat are comin' home to-day to 
be met wnd de same greetin'. {Produces Welcome Home banner.) Now 
youse jes fasten one end ob de rope to one side an' de odder end to de odder 
side. {Stretch banner across stage and fasten to wings.) So, dat am it. 
Now don't forget the flag, boys. {Stretch flag behind banner in same man- 
ner.) 

Hiram. {As he tacks small flag to front of store, strikes his thumb with ham- 
mer, shouts and dances around.) O me, O my, now, but that hurts some. 
Ouch ! 

Rasmus. Wat am de matter, Jenkins, habs youse struck de nail on de head dat 
time? {Laughter.) Youse am got ter be mighty careful. 

Hiram. Gee, whiz, but it hurts. 

Rasmus. Well, youse better stop nailin' den. 

Hiram. Guess I will. {Sits down, nursing finger.) 

Rasmus. There, now, I'se tink that ebry thing am lovely and we will gib de boys 
as grand a reception jess as we got back in de sixties. Now then, boys, fall 
in line. We'll march down to de depo' an' meet de train as she pulls in, an' 
escort dem right up here, an' Mr. Jenkins, who am de 'onery chairman ob de 
comite, will make de welcome speech. {Scouts fall in line.) Comp'ny 'ten- 
tion ! Forward, march ! {Rasmus leading. Scouts march around stage, then 
off, right.) 

Hiram. {Rises, shaking arm.) Gee-will-i-kens, but that does hurt some. Guess 
I'll go inside and put some arnica on it. {Off.) 

Sidney. {With Dick, comes from right, says disgustedly:) So we've come to 
the end of our rope at last. In a short time Truman will be back again, hail- 
ed by the people as the hero that he is, and then — what will become of us? 
I see the jail staring us in the face. 

Dick. {Carelessly.) O nonsense, Sidney, if there is any jail in sight, Truman 
will be the occupant, not you or me. I have laid my plans too well for that. 

Sidney. But, surely, you do not intend to fasten our crime on Truman? 

Dick. {Deliberately.) That is just exactly what I intend to do, and without 
any loss of time. Listen, Sidney, his own actions will convict. In the first 
place, the alterations in the ledger, made by us, will have to be explained by 
him. Next, the thousand dollars extracted from the safe will have to be 
accounted for. This will be a hard nut for Truman to crack, for I've since 
found out that on the day of his enlistment he deposited just exactly one thou- 
sand dollars in the savings bank. Do you get me? See how easy it will be 
to fasten the guilt on him ? 

Sidney. {Scornfully.) Dick, you are a monster, a devil in disguise. O why 
did I ever listen to you and go into this damnable business? 



The Birth of Freedom 13 



Dick. (Sneeringly.) O well, it's tool late now. All the reproach and regret 
won't put back that thousand in your dad's safe. You know that the account- 
ant who is now examining the books in the office found the false entry, and — 
Sidney. I know it, and you mean to cover up our rascality and put it up to Tru- 
man. 
Dick. That's it exactly, unless you want to bear the brunt of it (harshly), or, 
do you intend to put it up to me ? Look here, Sidney, I know that it is dirty 
work, but I have my own hide to protect. I've done it to save you, and I'll 
not be made the scapegoat, understand me ? 
Ashley. (Enters hastily.) I've been looking for both of you. I just learned 
from Mr. Peabody, the accountant, that there is a shortage and falsification of 
one thousand dollars on the books. Have you any knowledge of this, Sidney ? 
Sidney. (Hesitating.) Why, no — father. I know nothing further except that 

Mr. Peabody called my attention to it. 
Ashley. Very well. And how about you, Darrell ? Outside of my son, you and 

Truman Sanders are the only persons who have had access to the books. 
Dick. (Confused.) Why — er — Mr. Peabody informed me of the case, and Sid- 
ney and I were just discussing the matter as you came in. 
Ashley. Very well, then ; I will question Truman as soon as he arrives. 
Dick. I have been telling Sidney that I learned from good authority that Truman 
had deposited one thousand dollars in the savings bank on the day of his en- 
listment. It may be only a coincidence (faltering), but then — Truman also 

had charge of the ledger up to that time an 

Ashley. Well, what is your conclusion ? 
Dick. I dare not express any : that is for you to say. 

Ashley. You will both report to the office at once. I will be there directly. 
(Sidney and Dick, off.) A remarkable coincidence. Can it be possible that 
Truman should prove to be the culprit ? I cannot believe it, yet it looks sus- 
picious. I will go to the bank and investigate. (Off.) 

(Ray and Mason, dressed in Scout suits, enter from opposite sides of stage, 
each carrying a large placard marked respectively, "Welcome to Our Heroes" 
and "Shoiv Your Colors." They strut proudly across the stage and, meeting 
in center, march forivard, facing audience.) 
Mason. Wal, I'se joined de army at last. 

Ray. (Laughing.) So have I, but my, you look gay in that uniform ! 
Mason. Dat I do, Ray, an' I'se proud ob it bekase you sent it to me. 
Ray. O no, Mason, I coaxed daddy to buy the suit for you, and he did so. 
Mason. I'se cert'nly wery tankful to your daddy and to you fo' youse kindness. 
Ray. O that's all right. Mason, but how are you getting on ? You certainly was 

sick a long time. 
Mason. Yas, dat I be, so long dat I can scarce recomember anyfink. I'se want 
to tell somethin' 'bout youse brudder Sidney and dat Dick Darrell, but how- 
some-ebber I kaint recomember wat it am. 
Ray. O well, don't bother your head about it. Let us go and join the welcome 

parade ; the Scouts are down at the depot, now, and the train is near due. 
Mason. All right, Ray, I'se wid you. 

Hiram. (Coming from store, holding up thumb, bandaged with large red ker- 
chief.) Jumping Jupiter, but how that thumb jumps! One would think that 
it was hit by a trip-hammer. Wow, by gosh ! (Jumping around.) 
Mason. Wat am the matter, Marse Jenkins? Am vouse practicing de Wirginia 

Reel? 
Ray. No, Mason, that's a fox trot, that's the way they dance it up at our house. 
Hiram. You little rascals better clear out of here, and hurry along if you want 

to join the parade. 
Ray. Very well, Mr. Jenkins, we are off. (March off single file, whistling.) 
Hiram. Well, this is certainly a predicament. Here I'm supposed to deliver the 
welcome address to the returning soldiers, all bandaged up as though I was 
in the war myself, and not a line prepared for my speech. Well, troubles 
never come singly, so I better retire and prepare my address. (Off.) 
Ashley. (With Grabber, come from left.) Mr. Grabber, I would ask you to 
remain here with me, as I may have need of your services later. 



14 The Birth of Freedom 



Grabber. (Bowing.) At your service, Mr. Ashley. What's the trouble? 

Ashley. (Dick and Sidney enter.) There has been some crooked work going 
on at the office, with my books, and I may need you to apprehend the culprit. 

Grabber. Very well, Mr. Ashley, I'm an apprehender by profession, commonly 
known as a con-stuble. I'm the terror of evildoers, so I be. 

Sidney. So you have decided to press the case against Truman, daddy? 

Dick, It certainly does look black for him. 

Ashley. (Abruptly.) I have decided nothing. I don't do things on impulse. 
I have asked Grabber to remain with me in case I need his services. 
(A long screeching whistle is heard in distance, hells are tolling, and villagers 
are flocking from all directions, on stage, laughing and shouting, "Here they 
come!" "The hoys are home again." "Three cheers for our sons!" "God 
bless them" etc. 

(Hiram comes from store all dressed up, frock coat, high hat, etc., holding up 
right hand, with thumb bandaged, and shaking hands, all around, zvith left 
hand.) 

(Sounds of fifes and drums are gradually drawing nearer, and finally the 
parade appears, led by Rasmus, Mason and Ray zvith placards, and followed 
by Scouts and returning heroes, about tzvelve in number, zvith Captain Tru- 
man Sanders commanding.) (Service men of community may here be intro- 
duced.) 

(Pandemonium reigns; shouts of "All hail to our heroes!" "Hurrah!" etc.; 
the ranks are broken, general handshaking and embracing ensues. This 
scene should he made as natural and effective as possible by the director.) 
(Ashley, Sidney, Dick, and Constable stand to one side, stolid and indiffer 
ent.) 

Hiram. (After quiet has been restored, steps forzvard, saying:) Gentlemen 
and Heroes, friends and sons, in the name of the inhabitants of this commu- 
nity, I bid you thrice welcome on your home-coming. It was with sorrow 
that we bade you God-speed when you left for the front, and it is with joy 
and gladness that we acclaim your home-coming. Although your ranks have 
been thinned out, and many of your comrades have made the supreme sacrifice 
on the foreign battle fields, nevertheless we rejoice to have you, who have 
come out of that terrible carnage, back with us again, and not forgetting the 
silent brothers who have shed their blood, not in vain, but in the glorious 
cause of a new "Birth of Freedom," we shed a silent tear, and pray the 
Almighty, that He will grant them that reward which He promised to all good 
and faithful servants. (Turning to Truman.) And as for you, Captain 
Sanders, we notice with pride the distinguished service medal pinned upon 
your breast. At the same time we notice with grief the double loss you have 
sustained : the sheltering arm of your dearly beloved mother, and your right 
arm, the arm that has never beenknown to do a wrong deed. Captain Sanders 
and Heroes, I again welcome you from the bottom of my heart, and in the 
name of this community. 

Truman. (Stepping forward.) Mr. Jenkins and my dear friends. On behalf 
of my comrades, and in my own name, we thank you sincerely, thank you 
from the bottom of our hearts for this splendid manifestation of good will, 
for this hearty greeting which you have accorded us. It is indeed a privilege 
and a pleasure to be back in God's own country once more, to grasp the hands 
of our friends, to see those happy smiling faces and hear the dear, sweet 
voices again. (The people in turn exchange greetings with Truman and 
comrades, except Ashley, Sidney, and Dick, who stand indifferently to one 
side.) 

Truman. (Goes up to Ashley, with outstretched hand.) Why, my dear Mr. 

Ashley, I'm so glad to see you. (Ashley turns to one side.) Is there no 

word of welcome, of greeting, for me? (Astonished.) 
Ashley. I owe you no answer, Mr. Sanders. You have grossly violated my 

confidence, and I call upon the law to take its course. Officer, arrest that man. 
Grab, (Taps Truman on shoulder.) You are my prisoner. 



The Birth of Freedom 15 



Truman. {Staggering backzvard.) Prisoner? My God! Of what crime am I 

accused ? 
Grau. Forgery and embezzlement is tlie charge. 
Truman. ( Trembling.) Forgery ? Embezzlement ? Why, you must be mistaken ; 

you are playing a cruel joke on me, Mr. Ashley. {Ashley turns aside.) 
Sidney. You'll tind to your sorrow that it is not a joke. 
Dick. {Sneering.) Yes, it is quite a serious matter to rob one's employer. 
Truman. {Indignant.) What, you dare charge me with a robbery that I have 

never committed? What arc your proofs? 
Dick, O pshaw, it will be up to you to do the proving. A pretty bird, indeed. 
Truman. {Appealing.) Surely there must be a gross mistake, Mr. Ashley. You 

cannot, you must not, for a moment think of me as a criminal. 
AsHivEY. (Calmly.) The evidence is against you, that's all. {Turns to go 

away.) 
Mason. {Agitated and excited, steps forzvard.) One moment, Marse Ashley. 

Youse remember when youse picked me up in your office as I'se was near 

chokin' and Marse Sidney were bendin' ober me, squeezing de libe out er me, 

youse axes me a question, what's happened ? Tell me all ; don't be afraid ? 
Sidney. {Violently pushing Mason aside.) What insolence is this? 
Mason. {Defiantly.) Jess you wait, Marse Sidney, I'se aint fru yet. It am all 

comin' back to my mind. Dere am a cloud lifted off my brain. Thank de 

Lord, I'se kin think again. 
Dick. {Gruffly grabbing Mason.) If you don't leave here at once I'll throw 

you out. 
Mason. No, youse won't, not while my fren', Capting Sanders am 'round. {Goes 

to Truman, zvho puts arm about him.) Marse Sidney {points finger at him), 

I'se come to 'pologize agin. I'se tole youse a lie when I'se said in de office 

dat I'se seen an' heard nothin'. Will you tell wat happened, or shall I an- 
swer Marse Ashley's question now ? 
Sidney. {Rushes in rage at Mason, but is pushed back by Truman.) You black 

imp, you rascal, if you dare utter a word, I'll 

Mason, {Crouching in Truman's arm.) That's what youse said before, Marse 

Sidney, when you most choked the life out ob me, wid no one to help me, but 

Capting Sanders, our hero, will stand by me now. I'se not afraid. 
Sidney. {To Dick.) Come on, Dick, let's be off and not listen to this child's 

rambling any longer. He's flighty. 
Dick. I should say, he's nutty. 
Ashley. {To Sidney and Dick, as they attempt to leave.) Stop where you are — 

remain. I'll hear the lad's story. {Sidney and Dick return, trembling and 

agitated.) 
Mason. {Steps forzvard, speaks slozvly and deliberately.) Thank you, Marse 

Ashley, you'll not regret it. I'se went to your office, on that awful day, to 

'pologize to Marse Sidney, fo' bein' obnoxious to him in de morning'. Ask 

Sandy, wat are standin' dere, ib I'se tellin' de truf ? 
Sandy. Righto, Smoke, and I fired you out. 
Mason. Yas, dat am so, but I'se came back again wen youse lebt de office, an' 

met Capting Sanders. Is I'se right, Capting? 
Truman. Yes, Mason, I remember it very well. You asked for Mr. Sidney and 

said you wanted to apologize for being rude to him. 
Mason. Dat ain it 'xactly. An' den youse tole me dat Marse Sidney were in de 

private office, an' dat I could hang 'round till he come out. So I'se hided 

behind the safe an' Capting Sanders went out, sayin' as he were going to 

'nlist. 
Truman, That's the truth. Mason. 
Mason. Bymby Sidney an' Dick come from de office, an' I'se hear some talk 

'bout Ironsides Stockings bottom drop out, an' Marse Sidney goin' ravin' 

'round like, an' Dick tells him neber mind, I'll fix up de ledger, an' I'll take a 

t'ousand dollars from de safe to pay for dem stockings. 
Dick. You lie, you villain. 
Mason, No, Dickey, I'se no liar. Youse took a bunch ob money from de safe 



16 The Birth of Freedom 



an' puts it in youse coat pocket an' rushes out an' Marse Sidney hollerin', 
Wait, Dick ; don't do it ! An' he drops in a chair, cryin' like. 

Sidney. (Fiercely.) Liar and scoundrel that you are. 

Mascn. I'se tellin' de truf now. When I spoke to you and wanted to 'pologize, 
an' youse grab me by de troat an' near chokes me to dead, I tole a lie when 
I'se said dat I seen an' heard nuthin. Youse, Marse Ashley, came in at dat 
moment, an' seen Sidney choke me. Am I correct ? 

Ashley. (Dejectedly.) You are quite correct, child. 
Mason, An den when I swooned away like, youse ax me to tell all ? 
Ashley, (Slozvly.) Yes — yes. 

Mason, An' Ray come in, an' I says dat Sidney and me were havin' a sparrin' 
match ? 

Ray, Why, yes, Mason, I remember that. 

Mason. An' dear Uncle Rasmus and Ray brought me home, an' den I'se remem- 
ber nothin' for a long time until now, when youse 'rested Capting Sanders, it 
all came back to me, like a flash out ob de clear sky. Dat am all. 

Truman. (Sternly.) As a commanding officer in the U. S. Army, I ask you, 
constable, to arrest that man. (Points to Dick.) 

Dick, (Raging.) Arrest me, on the evidence of that imbecile? How can you 
corroborate his statements? 

Ashley. (Slowly.) By inquiring at the stock brokers if you have settled for 
Ironsides stocks, to the amount of one thousand dollars, on that day. (To 
Truman, crestfallen.) 1 am ashamed to ask your pardon, Captain, for my 
miserable action. If I could atone for it in any way, I would be the happiest 
man in this assemblage. 

Truman. (Taking Ashley's hand.) My dear Mr. Ashley, to err is but human. 
Now that we have discovered the true culprit, let us forget the incident, and 
join in the festivities. I harbor no animosity towards you, and have only the 
profoundest compassion for your son, Sidney. He was misled by that ras- 
cally Dick Darrell, and has brought shame and sorrow upon you. I hope 
that you will forgive him as cheerfully as I do. He has learned a lesson, and 
no doubt will profit by it in the future and become a manly man once more. 

Ashley, Captain Sanders, your words come as a sweet balm to my wounded 
heart. I will ever cherish them. And you, my dear friends, who have borne 
witness to my impetuousness, I ask your pardon. (To Mason.) And you, 
my dear little lad, you have lifted the dark cloud which has been hovering 
over us. I thank you from the bottom of my heart, I promise you that I will 
take care of your future, as I would of that of my own child, Ray. 

Mason, O dat am all right, Marse Ashley, as long as Ray and me can remain 
frens, I'se happy. 

Ray, (Rushes up to Mason, hugging him.) And I'm so happy, too. 

Mason, So's I, but please don't crumble up my new suit like that. (Laughs.) 

Hiram. (Steps forzvard.) And now that this trouble is settled and over, let us 
resume our festivities, in honor of our heroes, and above all, let us not forget 
on this memorable occasion the words of good old Abe Lincoln, "We here 
resolve that our dead shall not have died in vain — that this nation, under God, 
shall have a new birth of freedom." 

Rasmus. Yas, it am come again. "The Birth of Freedom" of sixty-five am re- 
peatin' itself in nineteen-nineteen, God protect it. 

HiR.\M. And in conclusion, let us listen to the words of our illustrious President, 
Woodrow Wilson : "The day has come when America is privileged to spend 
her blood and her might for the principles that gave her birth and happiness 
and the peace she has treasured." (All shouting.) Hurrah, for the "Birth 
of Freedom" ! 

Rasmus. (Commanding.) Comp'ny 'tention! All fall in. Forward, March! 
(All fall in line, marching off stage, singing the refrain, "March On." At the 
end of line, the constable is leading Dick off, and the curtain descends slowly.) 

FINIS. 



s\imopsis of play 




As the scene opens, Uncle Rasmus, led by Mason, is on his way to deliver the mail, from 
station, to the postmaster. Sidney demands that the mail for his father shall be turned over to 
him. Rasmus refuses to do so, and Mason asserts his rights, to the discomfort of Sidney. Hiram 
finally settles the dispute. Ray, the younger brother of Sidney, appears and makes friends with 
Rasmus and Mason, to the consternation of Sidney. The Boy Scouts appear, to drill under the 
direction of Uncle Rasmus, a veteran of the Civil War, when Hiram announces that war has been 
declared, and commands the Scouts to make known the news throughout the village. This they 
do after taking the pledge of allegiance to the flag, and, to the strains of the Star-Spangled Banner, 
the curtain descends. 

In the second act we are introduced to Sandy, a typical office boy. He endeavors to run t 
Ashley office according to his own ideas, but comes to grief. Mason appears to 'pologize to Sidr 
for his rudeness, and butts up against Sandy, coming out best. Truman arrives at the office, 
lowed by Sidney and Dick, and a heated argument ensues as to the relative merits of war, a 
Truman announces that he is ready to enlist as soon as war is declared, challenging Dick, -v 
has been nagging him, to do likewise. Dick is furious at the imputation and is about to st. 
Truman, when Ashley appears and quells the disturbance. iSidney and Dick have been f 
bling in stocks which, as war has been declared, have become worthless, so Dick concocts a s* 
to forge Truman's entries in the ledger during his absence at the front and abstract a s 
money from the safe and thus cast the odium on Truman. Mason, who calls again to 'pc 
to Sidney, however, is an innocent witness to the plot, and on being discovered by Sidney is 
by him almost into insensibility, but is rescued by Ashley and Ray, who come to his aid. 

In the first scene of the third act, the recruiting officer is busy enlisting men for th 
Truman being the first to enlist. Rasmus and Ray bring Mason home, suffering wit 
•/er, and Mason's mind becomes a blank. The recruits are leaving for camp singing "1 
and Our Country," and receive an ovation on their departure. 

In the second scene, elaborate preparations are under way to receive the home-coming i 
Captain Truman Sanders has received the distinguished service medal, and has not only lo 
arm in battle, but also his mother, who died during his absence. An enthusiastic receptic 
given the boys, with Hiram delivering an oration. Ashley refuses to recognize Truman a 
causes his arrest for forgery and embezzlement at the behest of Sidney and Dick, who are th,. 
guilty ones, and endeavor to put the crime on Truman. The plot is, however, frustrated by 
Mason, who recovers his memory, and recounts the incidents of the robbery, as witnessed by him. 
Truman is released and Dick is arrested in his stead, and the play comes to a close with innocence 
triumphant, and "The Birth of Freedom" established for all time. 



ANNOUNCEMENT 

In submitting this play for your consideration, the author feels that he has chosen a timely 
subject, coupled with an interesting plot, and abounding with thrilling climaxes and humorous 
incidents. It was written at the earnest solicitation of his numerous friends, who have found his 
juvenile plays of the past to meet with their approval. It should make an attractive and pleasing 
number for your forthcoming commencement program. 

A. J. SCHINDLER. 



i 




^ Latest Pat, ..ic ^ ^ig'Success 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 




Ke spond-ing- to ourCoun-try's call, 
Tho' far from home and friendsso dear. 



We ^ a-n-sioer read :' y one and all; 
There's One who walch-es ev ■ er near* 



To. 
As 




' f"^!** f°' i"^'*'?^^"'^ hu-man-i-ty. For__ free-dom right-eous-ness and lib . er - ty. No 

fac e the foe w.th shot and shel l_^round. And_ say a oravV that .>-« may hold our gro^d. -Zi^ 




mal - ice, ha -tred.scorn or greed, 
peace, tran-quil - li - ty may reign 



Im - pels our hearts to val - iant deed. 
The wide world o ■ ver soon a ■ gain. 



Wc are 

In «5bw 




bat-tling for our flag oer lAnd and sea, For the World's De-moc-ra - cy 
God of Might, of Jus.tioc and of Right. We wiU place our Des - ti 



As. 




march {t - long Stout of heart, full of hnpe.ne'er fUnch - ing. With glad -some 



song, 



And wiih 




Copyright, 1918, by A. J. ScHlndler. 
PRICE, PER COPY, 25 CENTS. FULL MILITARY BAND, 50 CENTS 



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